Honey Fungus Outbreak Devastates UK Gardens Amid Climate Change

As of November 3rd, 2025, gardeners across the UK are on high alert for a rapidly spreading fungal infection that has seen a dramatic 200% increase in the past year. The culprit is honey fungus, also known as Armillaria mellea, a common but highly destructive species that infects and kills a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and even edible plants.

The surge in honey fungus cases has been largely attributed to the effects of climate change, with a particularly hot summer followed by a damp autumn creating the ideal conditions for the fungus to thrive. Beloved garden plants such as birch, cedar, privet, willow, lilac, weigela, and cotoneaster are among the most frequently attacked, while allotment crops like strawberries and potatoes are also at risk.

Experts at the Royal Horticultural Society warn that honey fungus is "the most destructive fungal disease in UK gardens," and have advised gardeners to be vigilant for the telltale signs of infection, including pale leaves, dieback, early autumn color, and cracked, bleeding trunks. Unfortunately, there is no known chemical treatment for this virulent fungus, and the only solution is to dig up and completely remove any affected plants, ensuring they are burned or disposed of in landfill to prevent the spread.

To help combat the honey fungus outbreak, gardeners are encouraged to focus on maintaining the overall health and vigor of their plants, ensuring they have adequate access to water and nutrients, and applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of trees and shrubs. By taking these proactive measures, gardeners can help strengthen their plants' natural defenses against this devastating fungal infection.